Honda to launch 9 new models, expects 1.3m sales

Seiji Kuraishi, director of Honda China gives a presentation about Concept V, Honda's new compact SUV, at the 2013 Auto Guangzhou beginning Nov 21, 2013. [Photo / Provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

Honda Motor Co unveiled a concept SUV and displayed its entire line-up jointly with Guangqi Honda Automobile Co and Dongfeng Honda Automobile Co at the 2013 Auto Guangzhou beginning Nov 21.

The Honda Jade, a global model that made its world debut in China, was also displayed at the ongoing auto show. The Jade has attracted attention since it was launched on Sept 6, and realized a sales volume of 18,000 by Nov 19.

Special: Auto Guangzhou 2013

"Honda is aiming to sell a total of 1.3 million cars by 2015, and will launch a total of nine new models by 2015, including all-new and face-lift models," said Honda China director Seiji Kuraishi at the news conference.

"Honda will strengthen its products and reinforce the technologies, to constantly provide customers products with new value, more fun and convenience," Kuraishi continued.

The Japanese carmaker unveiled its compact concept SUV, Concept V, equipped with the FUNTEC technology at the news conference.

The Concept V hints at a dynamic, fuel-efficient small SUV with aspirational styling and next-generation connectivity. Its clean character lines are complemented by hidden rear door handles, giving the SUV a coupe-like presence.

The new concept is shorter than the CR-V, making it an ideal size for both city streets and mountain roads. It's poised to join the Honda light-truck lineup, with the Honda-original, center-tank layout and a configurable Magic Seat for a host of cargo and passenger options.

This vehicle is slated to launch in Japan later this year, with expansion to the US market in 2014.

A model poses next to a Concept V, Honda's new compact SUV, at the 2013 Auto Guangzhou beginning Nov 21, 2013. [Hao Yan / chinadaily.com.cn]